HOME > Latest News > Article > SPOTLIGHT ON Amanda Elder, Chief Commercial Officer, Kempinski
Latest News
Article

SPOTLIGHT ON Amanda Elder, Chief Commercial Officer, Kempinski

By Sharon Hirschowitz, Global Head of Media & Communications for The International Luxury Hotel Association
12 October 2023
6 min read
Share Article
Kempinski Palace Engelberg Wintergarden

Kempinski Palace Engelberg Wintergarden

In a recent conversation with Amanda Elder, we dove into Kempinski’s current expansion efforts, including their exciting new ventures into residences. Amanda also shares insights into how Kempinski has adapted its strategies to meet the changing preferences of luxury travelers in the post-pandemic era. Discover the role of emerging trends in shaping Kempinski’s future offerings and guest experiences and how the brand leverages technology, data, and the human touch to create truly tailored experiences. 

Can you provide insights into Kempinski’s recent expansion efforts and any exciting developments on the horizon for the brand in terms of new properties or locations?

Kempinski has always been an innovator, a pioneer in venturing into captivating corners of the globe. We set foot in China and Eastern Europe long before the world had fully discovered their allure. But now, we’re not merely confined to hotels; we’re evolving into an exquisite realm of residences.

One of our most exciting ventures is the splendid Residence project at Dubai Creek – a magnificent endeavor where the essence of Kempinski’s elegance meets the grandeur of Dubai’s skyline. We’re also proud to announce two additional residence properties in Turkey, further enhancing our commitment to providing discerning travelers with European-style living that’s as graceful as it is comfortable, mirroring the Kempinski experience they cherish in our hotels.

In addition to our remarkable residence projects, we have our sights set on key cities that hold incredible promise for the Kempinski brand. While I can’t divulge too much, I assure you that we have some thrilling new signings and properties on the horizon. Stay tuned for more exciting announcements!

Amanda Elder, Chief Commercial Officer, Kempinski

How has Kempinski adapted its strategies to meet the evolving demands and preferences of luxury travelers, especially in light of the changing travel landscape post-pandemic?

At Kempinski, we are always striving to elevate our services to match the ever-evolving needs and desires of our discerning travelers. The post-pandemic era has brought about a significant shift in what our guests value most, and it’s clear that personalization is at the forefront of their expectations.

While we appreciate the remarkable advancements in AI and technology, we firmly believe that the human touch and the personal connection are paramount. Our guests are seeking experiences that resonate with their deepest desires and evoke a profound sense of satisfaction when they bid adieu to our properties. This journey begins long before they arrive, and we make it a priority to engage with them in meaningful conversations to comprehend their expectations thoroughly.

As I’ve mentioned, we understand there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. It’s about individualizing and personalizing the guest experience. We’re committed to crafting experiences that are as unique and exceptional as the individuals who choose to stay with us. It’s dedicated to turning every stay into a cherished memory tailored to the guest’s preferences and aspirations.

Kempinski Hotel Cancun, Mexico

As the Chief Commercial Officer, what role do emerging trends play in shaping Kempinski’s future offerings and guest experiences in the luxury hospitality sector over the next year?

We place immense importance on staying at the forefront of emerging trends in the luxury hospitality sector. We recognize that our travel advisors are invaluable partners in understanding not only our guests but also their unique preferences and expectations.

By fostering close collaboration with our travel advisors, we aim to align our offerings precisely with the desires of our guests. This synergy empowers us to craft truly remarkable and tailored experiences. In essence, we are on a journey to create bespoke experiences that resonate with each guest on a personal level.

As we nurture these partnerships and collaborations, we eagerly anticipate the extraordinary opportunities they will bring to elevate the Kempinski experience and set new standards in the luxury hospitality sector. It’s a journey of innovation, customization, and a dedication to delivering unparalleled luxury experiences to our cherished guests.

The David Kempinski Tel Aviv Royal Suite
The David Kempinski Tel Aviv Royal Suite

In a world where personalization is key, how is Kempinski leveraging technology and data to create tailored experiences for its guests while maintaining the essence of luxury and exclusivity? 

We’ve recognized the pivotal role that technology and data play in the quest to create bespoke guest experiences while preserving luxury and exclusivity. To navigate this dynamic landscape, we recently acquired Concilio Labs, and we’re making substantial advancements in our tech infrastructure. This includes innovative app developments and the launch of our cutting-edge website, setting the stage for personalized experiences right from the start of each guest’s journey. Our commitment to enhancing the guest experience extends beyond the pre-arrival phase, encompassing technology investments within our properties. These investments form a comprehensive framework to continually meet and exceed guest expectations.

When it comes to AI, we take a measured approach. While we appreciate the potential for AI to streamline operations, we’re equally dedicated to safeguarding the essence of the human touch and connection that defines Kempinski’s unique charm. As we look to the future, our focus remains on leveraging technology to enhance the guest experience while ensuring that the warmth, personalization, and attentive service for which Kempinski is renowned always takes center stage. This commitment to technological advancement while preserving our core values represents a significant area of investment for Kempinski, reaffirming our position as a trailblazer in the luxury hospitality industry.

Ciragan Palace Kempinski Istanbul, Grand Deluxe Ciragan Bosphorus

With the rise of alternative accommodations and online booking platforms, how does Kempinski intend to maintain its brand identity and exclusivity while staying competitive in the luxury hotel market? 

Kempinski is proud to be one of the very few single luxury brand operators in the hospitality landscape, and we consider ourselves the quintessential European luxury brand. We are committed to preserving and enhancing this legacy as we move forward. Our approach to expanding our brand remains rooted in the belief that the Kempinski footprint is not only well-received but also cherished in the destinations where we operate.

Our owners share our enthusiasm for the innovations we recommend for our hotels, all designed to elevate the guest experience to new heights. These innovations not only preserve but also enhance our brand promise. We firmly believe in staying true to our core values of elegance, sophistication, and excellence.

As for our future expansion, while we can’t disclose specific locations at this moment, we’re excited about the prospect of adding more Kempinski properties to our portfolio. We will continue to navigate this evolving landscape with a keen eye on maintaining our unique brand identity and delivering exceptional experiences to our discerning guests. Our commitment to excellence is unwavering, and we look forward to further enriching the world of luxury hospitality with Kempinski’s presence.